Te Puia Lodge to Makino River

An unmarked route follows the true left of the Makino River from its meeting with the Mohaka for about 30 minutes. It provides good access for fishing and hunting. The route ends by a gorge around the 590 m spot height; this gorge can be impassable in higher river flows.

Once through the gorge, follow the river to the Makino – Mangaturutu three-wire bridge, then you can take the track to either hut.

Makino Hut to Makino River

The trip from Makino Hut takes approximately 45 minutes to the Ballard track junction. It then leads steeply downhill to the Makino river (600 metres altitude) for 1 hour. A three-wire bridge crosses the Makino River and the track then continues on to Mangaturutu Hut.

Mangaturutu Hut to Makino River

The track from Mangaturutu Hut descends steadily to reach Makino River. A three-wire bridge crosses the Makino River and the track then continues on to Makino Hut.

You can access the Makino River from the track between Te Puia Hut and Mangatainoka Hot Springs. You can also access Makino River from tracks from Makino Hut and Mangaturutu Hut.

Kaweka Forest Park access conditions

We recommend 4WD vehicles to reduce wear on the road and safe travel.

• Lotkow Road: The river crossings are regularly changing, check before crossing.
• Lakes carpark is accessible via Kuripapango road. The previous access Castle Rock road is now closed due to ongoing forestry operations.
• Lawrence Carpark access road: The last 600 m of the road is steep and not recommended for 2WD vehicles - a parking space is available before the descent. The Lawrence swing bridge has been removed.
• Mackintosh car park is currently closed due to ongoing forestry operations. A new parking location can be located at a skid site near the closed gate (end of Kuripapango Road), this will add on 500 m walking to reach the start of the track.
• Whittle Road: Be aware of trucks using the quarry. Give them right of way where possible. 

Be ready for mountain weather

This is a mountainous area. Visitors should be prepared for sudden weather changes, whiteouts, high winds on the ranges and rapidly rising water levels in rivers and streams.

Check the weather before you go. Kaweka J Summit weather forecast

Pack for all conditions and be ready for weather delays, including with an emergency shelter, spare food and a distress beacon. Packing lists

Stay safe when crossing rivers

If you plan to cross unbridged rivers, know how to cross safely and be prepared for if you cannot cross.

Do not cross if the river is flooded, you cannot find safe entry and exit points or are unsure it’s safe. Turn back or wait for the river to drop. If in doubt, stay out.

How to cross rivers safely

Expect a rough, slippery track and unmarked routes

The tracks between Makino Hut, Mangaturutu Hut and Mākino River are backcountry tramping tracks and are rough, muddy and slippery (especially after rain). They are best suited to experienced trampers with backcountry skills. You will need sturdy boots with good grip. The route up Mākino River from Te Puia Lodge is unmarked. You need good river crossing skills.

Fires

Extreme fire conditions can exist during summer. The park is a restricted fire area, which means permits to light fires are required all year round.

Maps

The Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) topographical maps that cover the Kaweka Forest Park are:

Topo50 map BH36 - Motutere
Topo50 map BH37 - Rangitaiki
Topo50 map BH38 - Te Haroto
Topo50 map BJ36 - Tawake Tohunga
Topo50 map BJ37 - Kuripapango
Topo50 map BJ38 - Te Pohue
Topo50 map BK37 - Tikokino